Vermont Rural Water Association

Operation and Maintenance of Distribution Systems
2025-05-21 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Lyndon Public Safety Facility, 316 Main St, Lyndonville, VT, 05851, United States
Description
Groundwater system operators have many tasks to accomplish to operate and maintain their water systems. We will review administrative tasks such as sampling and monitoring, consumer confidence reports, chemical monitoring waivers, source protection, operation and maintenance manuals, monthly operating reports, operator certification and sanitary surveys.
Operation and maintenance of groundwater sources is a very important part of providing safe drinking water to consumers. Ensuring sustainability by performing drawdown tests on groundwater wells will help you to know how sustainable your groundwater source is. Operating your disinfection system and understanding the chlorination process is key to providing safe water that consumers find palatable.
Water distribution systems can often be a contamination vulnerability. Maintenance items such as flushing, valve exercising, and hydrant maintenance are of the utmost importance.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

TNC Operations
2025-05-22 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This course is designed for Transient Non-Community (TNC) Water System Operators. No matter what your experience as a water system operator, this course will help you better manage your system. The course will review the following topics: disinfecting your water system (UV and chlorine), sampling procedure and sampling schedules, sanitary survey review, common water system deficiencies, rules and regulations (current and upcoming rules), discussion of seasonal operations, basic site investigations.
For Class 1B operators, this course will fulfill the requirement to obtain 3 continuing education credits prior to renewal of your certification.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Meredith Maskell (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Personal Protective Equipment, Ladder, and Electrical Safety
2025-05-27 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will cover several safety considerations for water and wastewater personnel. First, we will look at new and improved personal protective equipment (PPE). Falls are the second highest cause of workplace fatality across the nation, so we will discuss ladder safety at home and in the workplace. Water and wastewater operators work on and around electrical equipment at their facilities. This class focuses on the electrical safety measures that should be in place at your facility.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Cost
$24 Member
$48 Non-member
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Operation and Maintenance of Distribution Systems
2025-05-29 09:00 - 12:30 | Brattleboro Fire Department, 103 Elliot St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301, United States

Advanced WW Series: Real Control of the Activated Sludge Process
2025-05-29 09:00 - 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will discuss the science and math behind the three principles guiding the control of the activated sludge process: (1) give the mixed liquor just the air it needs, where it needs it, when it needs it; (2) identify and maintain the minimum SRT TARGET that meets the effluent ammonia requirement and gives the best sludge quality; and (3) maintain the lowest RAS flow possible without overloading the secondary clarifier.
Credit
5 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Eric Wahlberg (Wastewater Technology Trainers)
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series
This class is part of the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series. Classes in this series are intended for experienced wastewater operators. It is recommended that you have attended the Basic Wastewater Course, passed a wastewater certification exam, and/or worked a number of years at a wastewater treatment facility before taking these advanced classes.
These classes are designed for operators who are looking to enhance their understanding of wastewater treatment; preparing for a Grade 3, 4, or 5 wastewater exam; or seeking a management position at a wastewater treatment facility. There is no formal enrollment in the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series—just sign up for each class you want to take. These classes will have “Advanced WW Series” in the title. Find more information here.

Lake Champlain Live
2025-05-29 13:00 - 15:00 | Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory, 3 College Street, Burlington, VT, United States
Class Description
Join us aboard the University of Vermont’s new state-of-the-art research vessel the R/V Marcelle Melosira for a hands-on glimpse into the science of Lake Champlain. This training will engage attendees in learning about the current condition of our state’s largest receiving water, as well as how our work in the water and wastewater industry impacts aquatic ecosystems. While aboard the research vessel, attendees will be guided by Watershed Educators as they learn about the unique properties of the lake and gather data that assists researchers in understanding the dynamic nature of the lake. We will learn about ongoing research, gain experience with science on the lake, and deepen our understanding of the interaction between the many physical, biological, chemical, and cultural variables that contribute to the health of the lake and its watershed.
Class Credit
2 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Location
The Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory is located on the back side of the ECHO Center on the waterfront. Attendees will be responsible for finding their own parking in Burlington. Paid parking is available at the city-owned parking lot across from the ECHO Center on a first-come-first-served basis.
Important Notes
This training takes place on the water and will be subject to cancellation if weather conditions are deemed unsafe. In the event of a cancellation up to the time of departure, we will contact you via the phone number and e-mail address you registered with.
Please wear close-toed shoes and appropriate clothing to be away from shore for the duration of the training. Closed-toed shoes are required to board the vessel. Bring sunscreen, water, and anything else you may need for the trip. The R/V Marcelle Melosira does have a bathroom and sheltered cabin.
Instructors
Lake Champlain Sea Grant Watershed Instructors
Proctor
Brad Roy (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Advanced WW Series: Principles of Nitrogen Removal
2025-06-04 08:00 - 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will cover an introduction to nitrogen removal techniques and practices. It will include discussions of the forms and sources of nitrogen in wastewater, nitrogen analyses for process control, the biology of nitrification and denitrification, the Anamox process (anaerobic ammonia oxidation), process control schemes for nitrogen removal including cyclical aeration, and troubleshooting nitrogen treatment problems.
Credit
6 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Paul Olander
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series
This class is part of the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series. Classes in this series are intended for experienced wastewater operators. It is recommended that you have attended the Basic Wastewater Course, passed a wastewater certification exam, and/or worked a number of years at a wastewater treatment facility before taking these advanced classes.
These classes are designed for operators who are looking to enhance their understanding of wastewater treatment; preparing for a Grade 3, 4, or 5 wastewater exam; or seeking a management position at a wastewater treatment facility. There is no formal enrollment in the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series—just sign up for each class you want to take. These classes will have “Advanced WW Series” in the title. Find more information here.

Optimize Your Water and Wastewater Pump Stations
2025-06-10 08:00 - 11:30 | Lyndon Public Safety Facility, 316 Main St, Lyndonville, VT, 05851, United States
Description
Proper planning will prepare you for breakdowns and the unexpected. In this training, you will learn how to effectively maintain and operate pump stations. We will cover basic hydraulic principles of centrifugal pumps and learn to detect, troubleshoot, and make repairs for the most common problems. Electrical components and failures will be covered in detail. This is a great review for certification exams.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
John Benham (Pump Systems Inc.)
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Understanding Your Motor Control Panels
2025-06-11 08:00 - 12:30 | Lyndon Public Safety Facility, 316 Main St, Lyndonville, VT, 05851, United States
Description
Water and wastewater operators, while not electricians, need to understand the critical components of motor control panels and know how to troubleshoot problems. You will have the opportunity to practice these skills at a control panel workstation. Electrical theory, formulas and safety will be covered in detail, making this course a great review for certification exams. Please bring your voltage/amp meter if you have one.
Credit
4 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
John Benham (Pump Systems Inc.)
Proctor
Wayne Graham (Vermont Rural Water Association)

What to Expect at a VOSHA Inspection
2025-06-12 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
Be prepared for your next Vermont Occupational and Health Administration (VOSHA) inspection. Miriam Owens, compliance assistance specialist at VOSHA, will detail common deficiencies found at worksites and how to correct them.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Cost
$24 Member
$48 Non-member
Instructor
Miriam Owens (Vermont Occupational and Health Administration)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Leadership in Safety
2025-06-17 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
In this session, participants will receive an overview of the importance of leadership’s involvement in safety and how to engage your employees in creating a culture where safety is a top priority for everyone in the organization. Being a leader in safety is more than just compliance; it’s creating an environment where safety is forefront by:

Developing a Safety Vision and Mission: Articulate a clear and compelling safety vision that aligns with the organizational goals.
Engaging Employees at All levels: Encourage employee involvement in safety programs.
Investing in Training and Development: Continuous training is essential for meeting the latest safety standards and practices.
Fostering a Culture of Accountability: Ensure that everyone in the organization understands their role in maintaining safety.
Conducting Regular Audits and Inspections: Regularly scheduled audits and inspections can help identify potential risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Promoting Open Communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting hazards, incidents, and near-misses without fear of retaliation.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility, but it begins with strong, effective leadership that inspires and guides.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Miriam Owens (Vermont Occupational and Health Administration)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Advanced WW Series: Principles of Phosphorus Removal
2025-06-24 08:00 - 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will cover an introduction to chemical and biological phosphorus removal techniques and practices. It will include discussions of the forms and sources of phosphorus in wastewater, chemical removal processes, jar testing, biological removal processes, using the ortho-phosphate analysis for process control, experiences in optimizing phosphorus removal coming out of the EPA/DEC optimization grant, and influent phosphorus control.
Credit
6 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructor
Paul Olander
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series
This class is part of the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series. Classes in this series are intended for experienced wastewater operators. It is recommended that you have attended the Basic Wastewater Course, passed a wastewater certification exam, and/or worked a number of years at a wastewater treatment facility before taking these advanced classes.
These classes are designed for operators who are looking to enhance their understanding of wastewater treatment; preparing for a Grade 3, 4, or 5 wastewater exam; or seeking a management position at a wastewater treatment facility. There is no formal enrollment in the Advanced Wastewater Treatment Series—just sign up for each class you want to take. These classes will have “Advanced WW Series” in the title. Find more information here.

Optimize Your Water and Wastewater Pump Stations
2025-06-25 08:30 - 12:00 | Windham Regional Career Center – Cusick Conference Room, 80 Atwood St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301, United States

Understanding Your Motor Control Panels
2025-06-26 08:30 - 13:00 | Windham Regional Career Center – Cusick Conference Room, 80 Atwood St, Brattleboro, VT, 05301, United States

Successful Crisis Communications: Lead, PFAS, & Incident Management
2025-06-26 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This session will show attendees how successfully handle crisis communications before, during, and after major discoveries or incidents, so they can not only protect their utilities’ reputations, but improve them through planned transparency. WaterPIO has assisted clients with PFAS panics, Lead and Copper Rule exceedances, and systemwide infrastructure failures in more than 20 states. This series of presentations will walk attendees through proper crisis communications management of PFAS discoveries, lead inventory findings and exceedances, and significant water and sewer main breaks—all situations that posed long-term threats to customer confidence.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Mike McGill (WaterPIO)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Disaster Response Training
2025-07-15 09:00 - 15:30 | Vermont State University – Randolph, Langevin House, Furnace St, Randolph Center, VT, 05061, United States
DescriptionThis training will guide communities in preparing and responding to emergencies, with a focus on safety and resilience for water and wastewater systems. Participants will learn essential skills and information to support their communities in the face of disasters.
Topics will include:

Safety – Learn situational awareness and operator and facility safety fundamentals, including potential hazards such as electrical issues, toxic gases, and structural damage, using recent flood events as real-world examples.
Mutual Aid Networks – Overview of the Vermont WARN mutual aid network and how to effectively partner with local and state emergency management teams.
Emergency Planning and Hazard Mitigation – Strategies for creating or strengthening emergency response plans at both the facility and community levels, with insights from recent disaster responses.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – Key SOPs for pre- and post-disaster preparedness, including maintenance and communication protocols to support smooth operations during critical times.
FEMA 101 – Learn about FEMA’s Public Assistance reimbursement program that provides federal funding to help communities respond to and recover from disasters such as Vermont’s 2023 and 2024 July flood events.
Funding – USDA funding opportunities available for enhancing system capacity and resilience, especially for mitigating risks from disasters declared in 2022.

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to enhance the safety and resiliency of their facilities and be better prepared for efficient emergency response and recovery.
Credit6 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
InstructorsLiz Royer (Vermont Rural Water Association)Dan Whipple (Integrity Safety Consulting Services, LLC)Dianne Drown (USDA)Kim Canarecci (Vermont Emergency Management)
Additional Sessions This class will be offered again on December 11, 2025 at the Williston Fire Department
LunchLunch will be provided for free, sponsored by Team EJP!

Multimeters and Control Panels
2025-07-23 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This class will focus on using multimeters for safely measuring voltage, current, and resistance. The class will also cover basic components and operation of control panels. This will be a hands-on class. Meters will be available for use but you are encouraged to bring your own multimeter.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Don Martin (Pump Control Solutions, LLC)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Generator Maintenance
2025-07-30 09:00 - 12:30 | Killington Grand Hotel, 228 E Mountain Rd, Killington, VT, 05751, United States
Description
This class covers essential skills for the maintenance and installation of generators in water and wastewater treatment facilities, ensuring operational reliability and compliance with industry standards. Participants will gain hands-on experience with generator systems, focusing on troubleshooting, routine upkeep, and installation best practices. Additionally, the course includes an overview of state regulations governing generator use in water and wastewater facilities and will ensure that operators are familiar with safety requirements.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructors
Sam Politi (Brook Field Service)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Lunch
Lunch will be provided by by Brook Field Service!
RESCHEDULED
Unfortunately this class will be rescheduled for later this fall (tentatively October 16). Email asmith@vtruralwater.org if you would like to be notified when the new date is confirmed.

Hydrants, Valves, and Taps
2025-08-06 09:00 - 12:30 | EJ Prescott – South Burlington, 1235 Airport Pkwy, South Burlington, VT, 05403, United States
Description
This course will begin with a hands-on overview of hydrant and valve maintenance. The class will also discuss taps and meters, as well as maintenance, installation, and new technologies in the industry. The class is located at EJP’s South Burlington office and will utilize actual equipment and components to give participants an opportunity to practice disassembling and assembling hydrants and their components.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructors
Brian Burns (Champlain Water District) and Rob McClaren (EJ Prescott)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

First Aid, CPR, AED
2025-08-12 09:00 - 12:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Description
This American Heart Association Heartsaver® First Aid Adult & Child CPR AED course is designed for individuals with little or no medical training who need a course completion card for job or regulatory requirements, such as OSHA, or for those who simply want to be prepared to respond in an emergency.
Tailored to water and wastewater operators, the comprehensive Heartsaver® Total course meets regulatory standards. Topics include scene assessment and safety, medical and injury emergencies, environmental emergencies, adult and child CPR, AED use, and relief from choking, with the option to include infant CPR. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a two-year American Heart Association certification card.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Tamara McLaughlin (VT Safety Net)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Water Distribution Essentials
2025-08-21 09:00 - 12:30 | F.W. Webb – Williston, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
Join Troy Ebbighausen from F.W. Webb for a comprehensive 3-hour training designed for water operators and distribution personnel. This session will cover practical, day-to-day skills and safety essentials for working in the field.
Topics include:
Mega Lugs—Learn the differences between types for various pipes and proper installation techniques.
Repair Clamps—Understand the role of clamps in water main repair, including correct torque specifications.
HDPE Service Lines—Best practices for making secure and lasting connections.
Daily Operations—Field-proven tips for improving efficiency and performance in water distribution tasks.
OSHA Compliance—Safety considerations when digging and working in trenches, with a focus on protecting yourself and your team.
This training will equip attendees with practical knowledge and reinforce safe, effective methods for maintaining and repairing water distribution systems.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Troy Ebbighausen (FW Webb)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 4 Water Treatment Course
2025-09-03 08:30 - 2025-10-28 15:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Wednesday, September 3
Tuesday, September 9
Wednesday, September 24
Tuesday, September 30
Tuesday, October 7
Tuesday, October 14 (on Zoom)
Tuesday, October 21
Tuesday, October 28
8:30 am to 3:30 pm each day
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 4 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exams. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Treatment Plant Operation, Volume 1 (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $86

This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Books can be purchased along with your registration and will be distributed on the first day of class.
Credit
48 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 4 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams

Water Distribution Course
2025-09-04 08:30 - 2025-10-16 15:30 | Waterbury Municipal Center, Community Room, 28 N Main St, Waterbury, VT, 05676, United States
Dates
Thursday, September 4
Thursday, September 11
Thursday, September 25
Friday, October 3 (at Dewey Conference Room, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier)
Thursday, October 9
Thursday, October 14 (on Zoom)
8:30 am to 3:30 pm each day
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those preparing to take the Distribution (Class D) Certification Exam. Topics will include all aspects of distribution systems, as well as hydraulics, water chemistry, water mathematics, and sampling procedures. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Distribution, Grades 1 & 2 (American Water Works Association) – $96
This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Books can be purchased along with your registration and will be distributed on the first day of class.
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Distribution Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams

Polymer Master Class & Corrosion Control
2025-09-09 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This two-part class is designed to provide drinking water and wastewater operators with a deeper understanding of polymers and corrosion control. The first section focuses on optimizing polymer use—not just by price per pound, but by evaluating compatibility with specific sludge characteristics, dewatering equipment, and application methods. Operators will learn how to calculate appropriate concentrations and dilution rates for their facility, with interactive elements to encourage critical thinking and engagement. The second section covers the fundamentals and benefits of corrosion control, including strategies for protecting copper, lead, and iron pipes, addressing manganese and tuberculation issues, and optimizing testing and chemical dosing. Participants will gain practical knowledge to proactively detect and prevent system failures, improving water quality and saving on long-term costs.
Credit
3 TCH (Wastewater)
2 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Ryan Peebles (Clean Waters, Inc.)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Industrial User Surveys
2025-09-10 08:00 - 12:30 | Waterbury State Office Complex, Fox Conference Center, 280 State Drive, Waterbury, VT, 05676, United States
Description
Knowing who is discharging to a municipal wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) and understanding what industrial users are discharging is becoming more and more critical to successful operation and troubleshooting for municipal WWTF operators.
This class will cover the basics of how to identify users and their discharges by using surveys. The instructors will include information on how to prepare and conduct a typical Clean Water Act National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)-compliant Industrial User Survey (IUS). An effective method of collecting data is using online survey tools. Basic instruction on how to set up and use a free SurveyMonkey account will be provided.
Thoughts for successfully getting useful survey responses will also be explored. After the hands-on survey development and review of typical results, there will be a discussion on how information received can be used to understand changes that may be helpful to minimize the likelihood of upsets to the municipal system.
Important Notes
This training is intended to include a productive work session. It is most helpful (but not required) if you bring a computer or tablet capable of an internet connection.
Credit
4 TCH (Wastewater)
Instructors
Heidi Marchall and Nichole Davis (Hoyle, Tanner & Associates, Inc.)
Proctor
Elijah Lemieux (Vermont Rural Water Association)
This class is being provided free of charge by the City of Barre as part of the settlement of an enforcement action with the Agency of Natural Resources.

De-escalating High Intensity Situations
2025-09-23 09:00 - 12:30 | Essex Police Department, 145 Maple Street, Essex Junction, VT, 05452, United States
Description
Verbal de-escalation training is a valuable skillset that equips individuals with effective communication tools to navigate tense and potentially volatile situations. Mourning Fox’s training is dynamic and engaging, no matter if this is a new topic for a participant or a well-seasoned clinician. He focuses on preventing violence through assessment and verbal interactions. Participants in this training gain skills and knowledge to help them to better identify who is at risk of becoming violent or aggressive, and what the behavioral signs are that someone may be potentially assaultive. Participants learn skills and techniques that can help to de-escalate high intensity situations verbally. In addition, he presents methods for improving staff communication around and during a crisis as well as the importance of documentation language. The role of respect as a protective factor is discussed throughout the training as well as some basic brain science that can impact our attempts at de-escalating a situation.
Mourning Fox uses information he has gained over the years as a Crisis Prevention Institute trainer, a Non-Abusive Physical and Psychological Intervention trainer, and as a Mental Health First Aid trainer combined with information he gained as a trained crisis negotiator working with law enforcement. This training ultimately aims to promote conflict resolution through dialogue, creating safer and more harmonious interactions in various settings.
Credit
3 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Mourning Fox (Caldera Associates, LLC)
Proctor
Allison Smith (Vermont Rural Water Association)

Class 3 Water Treatment Course
2025-09-24 08:30 - 2025-10-28 15:30 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Wednesday, September 24
Tuesday, September 30
Tuesday, October 7
Tuesday, October 14 (on Zoom)
Tuesday, October 21
Tuesday, October 28
8:30 am to 3:30 pm each day
Description
This multi-week course is designed for those training to become a Class 3 water treatment operator. All aspects of water operations are covered to prepare you to take the certification exam. You are expected to attend all class sessions.
Textbooks
The following books are required for all students:
Small Water System Operation and Maintenance (Office of Water Programs, Sacramento State) – $100
Water System Operations Water Treatment, Grade 2 (American Water Works Association) – $86

This book is recommended:
Water Operator Certification Exam Prep (American Water Works Association) – $106
Books can be purchased along with your registration and will be distributed on the first day of class.
Credit
36 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Exam
Find information about the Class 3 Certification Exam at https://dec.vermont.gov/water/drinking-water/public-water-system-operator-certification/public-water-system-operator-exams

Basic Wastewater Course
2025-09-25 08:00 - 2025-11-05 15:00 | National Life Complex, Dewey Building, 1 National Life Drive, Montpelier, VT, 05602, United States
Dates
Thursday, September 25
Thursday, October 2
Thursday, October 9
Wednesday, October 15 – on Zoom (beginning at 9 am)
Thursday, October 16
Thursday, October 23
Thursday, October 30
Wednesday, November 5
8 am to 3 pm each day (except October 15)
Description
This eight-session course will prepare attendees to take the Grades 1, 2, or 3 Domestic Wastewater certification exams, and is a great primer for those taking higher grade exams. Attendees will learn the basic concepts of wastewater treatment from collection system to final disposal of effluents and solids.
The course will be taught by Elijah Lemieux and Wayne Graham from the Vermont Rural Water Association, along with guest presenters to provide expertise on specific topics.
Textbook
The course is based on Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants (Volume 1, 8th edition) by the Office of Water Programs. All students are required to have a copy of this book. You can purchase it for $100 when you register for this class.
Credit
47 TCH – Wastewater
Cost
$800 (with textbook)
$700 (no textbook)
Register early! The maximum class size is 20.

Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 1
2025-10-01 09:00 - 15:00 | F.W. Webb – Williston, 80 Park Avenue, Williston, VT, United States
Description
This class is part of a three-day series that covers basic math concepts that operators use frequently in their work and are most likely to appear on the water and wastewater certification exams. Participants may sign up for one or all three of the individual classes. We encourage participants to attend all three days if they are preparing for water or wastewater exams.
In this first session, the following topics will be covered:

ABC Formula Sheet review
Solving word problems
Mathematical rules of thumb
Conversion factors
Perimeter, area, and volume

Textbook
Math Handbook for Water System Operators by Bob Larsen is required for all students. You can purchase this book along with your registration for $40. Books will be distributed at the beginning of class.
Credit
5 TCH (Water & Wastewater)
Instructor
Paula Jackson (Vermont Rural Water Association)
Cost
$40 Member
$80 Non-member
$40 Textbook
Additional Classes
This is the first in a series of three classes. You are not required to take all three.
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 2 on Wednesday, October 15 – Register Here
Basic Math for Water and Wastewater Operators: Day 3 on Wednesday, October 22 – Register Here

Regulatory Communications and Recordkeeping for Small Water Systems
2025-10-09 09:00 - 12:30 | Zoom, Zoom
Description
This class will discuss communications with the State and recordkeeping for small water systems. The first part is a guide to routine correspondence with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), including what to expect, what to do, and who to call. The second part will cover recordkeeping, including what papers to keep in your file, where and how to find them, and the valuable information they have for your knowledge.
Credit
3 TCH (Water)
Instructor
Ashleigh Belrose (VT Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division)
Proctor
Tim Russo (Vermont Rural Water Association)
